Suzuki Method

This is my description of Suzuki as published in my studio brochure. To see the Suzuki Association’s introduction to the method, click here.

What is the Suzuki Method?

Developed by Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki in the 1940s, the Suzuki method is based on the idea that children can learn music in the same way they learn their native language. Musical literacy is developed by listening, imitation, repetition, and reading in a supportive environment.

What helps Suzuki work?

Listening— A musical foundation is built through ongoing listening to the music that will be studied.

Real music repertoire— An emphasis on real songs, not exercises or note patterns, allows skills to develop authentically.

Review— Repertoire is reviewed extensively, allowing for ongoing learning and continuing feelings of success and accomplishment.

Memorization— Playing from memory allows students to listen to themselves and think while they play without the initial barrier of printed music.

Reading— Theory and reading skills are taught from the first lesson so that when printed music is introduced later there is a solid foundation to support understanding.

Who is involved in a lesson?

An attentive, involved parent

A creative, trained teacher

A willing, engaged student

All three work together, one small step at a time, in the context of a positive learning environment.